Eli Lilly and Company Honored as BDPA Gold Level Sponsor

Once again Eli Lilly and Company has hit the $50,000 Gold Level Sponsorship mark at Black Data Processing Associates (BDPA) 40th Annual National Technology Conference & Career Fair. The event will take place on August 9-11, 2018 at the Hyatt Regency New Orleans, 601 Loyola Avenue New Orleans, Louisiana. BDPA’s Career Fair will be held on two days, Friday August 10, 1pm-5pm and Saturday, August 11, 9am-2pm. It is free and open to the public. Expecting over 1,000 Information Technology (IT) professionals, along with 40 Fortune 500 Companies, BDPA is excited about bringing one-stop interview opportunities to IT applicants. Patrons can register online via www.bdpa.org website.

The Lilly story began 140 years ago, when founder Colonel Eli Lilly combined scientific rigor and passion for discovery, with caring for the individuals and communities the company served. Employees honor his legacy by embodying his call to "Take what you find here and make it better and better."

Diversity Inc., has ranked Eli Lilly the following;
    • Top 50 Companies for Diversity (No. 16)
    • Top Company for People with Disabilities (No. 8)
    • Progress (No. 8), Mentoring (No. 9)
    • Employee Resource Groups (No. 11)
    • Supplier Diversity (No. 11)

Tim Coleman

“We are proud to again partner with and support BDPA. The organization’s work to ensure a diverse talent pipeline for the future and to encourage young people to explore careers in science and technology aligns with our beliefs at Lilly,” said Tim Coleman, Eli Lilly and Company Vice President. “Education is so vital to creating the professionals who will contribute to the discovery of innovative medicines of the future.”

For 40 years, BDPA has enabled the upward mobility of African Americans and other minorities in the Information Technology (IT) and STEM fields. Through its 40+ local community chapters in major cities across the United States, BDPA has been at the forefront of promoting the minority agenda within the IT profession since 1975.

Michael Wulf

"We extend a hearty thank you and recognize Eli Lilly and Company for its unwavering belief in BDPA and their commitment to a diverse and inclusive workforce,” said Dr. Michael Wulf, National BDPA vice president. “In 2018 BDPA raises the bar even higher with a distinct shift and focus on persistent member experiences, radically enhanced pipeline programs and building strategic partnerships with academia and other high performing organizations, like Eli Lilly. Lilly's sponsorship helps fill the information technology (IT) pipeline by supporting local and national STEM professional development programs for youth and adults. Their sponsorship and willingness to invest incredible leadership resources like our newly elected BDPA National President, Mr. Terry Morris, is a distinct testimony that BDPA will remain the premier IT professional development networking organization delivering a network of diverse IT talent for years to come."

For corporate sales please contact corpsales@bdpa.org or 301-584-3135 ext. 108.

Eli Lilly Scholarship for BDPA Students (Due: June 2, 2017)

BDPA Education and Technology Foundation is proud to open up the application period for any graduating high school student or current college student interested in the 11th Annual Eli Lilly and Company Scholarship for BDPA Students!

The purpose of the Lilly/BDPA Scholarship is to recognize outstanding minority students, with an interest in information technology, who make significant contributions to society. Applicants must excel academically, show exceptional leadership potential, and make an impact on their communities through service to others.

Lilly/BDPA Scholars will be awarded a $2.500 scholarship that may be used to pursue an information technology focused degree at an accredited four-year college or university of their choice. The Lilly/BDPA Scholarship may be used to supplement benefits from the college or university a student plans to attend and fellowships from other foundations or organizations. Students may use the scholarship to cover the cost of tuition, fees, books, room and board, and other college-related expenses.

Scholarship winners will be selected based on the application, essay, and letters of recommendation.

To be eligible for Lilly/BDPA Scholarship, each applicant must:

• Be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident of the United States
• Be a member of BDPA
• Be a graduating high school senior or current college student in good standing at the time of their application.
• Be pursuing a degree in information systems, computer science, computer engineering, or a computer science related discipline.
• Demonstrate academic achievement (minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0)
• Exhibit leadership ability through academic or civic involvement and participate in community service activities

Complete application packet must include the following:

1. Application Form
2. Current official sealed transcript (for high school applicants, your transcript MUST include your senior year grades)
3. 500-word essay on “Why Information Technology is Important and How it Has Changed Our Day-to-Day Lives”
4. Two signed letters of recommendation
5. Passport-sized photo

Click here to download application!

Scholarships will be awarded only to students who fully meet the scholarship requirements. All application materials must be RECEIVED by June 2, 2017 in order to be eligible.  Incomplete, e-mailed or faxed applications will not be considered!

We will announce the three (3) winners of the Eli Lilly Scholarship for BDPA Students during the 2017 National BDPA Technology Conference in Indianapolis.   We are very proud of our past Lilly/BDPA scholarship winners:

Cameron Hughes (2013 Scholar)

1. 2007, Daniel Puente (University of Texas)
2. 2007, Christian West (Northwestern University)
3. 2008, Khalia Braswell (North Carolina State University)
4. 2008, Lee Reed (University of Michigan)
5. 2009, Hung Vo (Georgia Institute of Technology)
6. 2009, Carrine Johnson (Palos Verdes Peninsula High School)
7. 2010, Leslie Vasquez (Pike High School)
8. 2010, Gerardo Dominguez (Chicago State University)
9. 2011, Jala Cruz (North Central High School)
10. 2011, Adwait Walimbe (John Marshall High School)
11. 2012, Allen Warner (Valdosta State University)

    

    Dylan Gunn (2014 Scholar)

12. 2013, Risa Christopher (Indiana University)
13. 2013, Cameron Hughes (University of California, San Diego)
14. 2014: Pooja Chebolu (University of Southern California);
15. 2014: Dylan Gunn (North Carolina A&T)
16. 2015: Chelsea Carter (Kettering University)
17. 2015: Deeneva Nikerle (Temple University)
18. 2016: Lauren Ravenell (Ball State University) 
19. 2016: Adrienne Nelson (Florida A&M University)   
20. 2016: Andre Garner (University of Illinois)

Do you know any high school or college kids looking to study in a technology-based field during college? Can they use a $2,500 scholarship? If so, you need to share this information with them right away!

Any questions?

Top Pharmaceutical Company Eli Lilly and Company Continues Diversity Commitment to BDPA

Eli Lilly and Company, one of the world’s top pharmaceutical companies and one of Fortune’s Most Admired Companies recently renewed its Gold Level sponsorship commitment to BDPA to increase diversity by creating opportunities in the industry.

Mike Williams

National BDPA President Mike Williams said, "Eli Lilly continues to be an invaluable partner and sponsor for BDPA. They continue to distinguish themselves as champions of workforce diversity through their actions and financial commitment."

Lilly is a global health care leader that unites caring with discovery to make life better for people around the world. For more than a century, they have stayed true to a core set of values—excellence, integrity, and respect for people -- that guide them in all they do: discovering medicines that meet real needs, improving the understanding and management of disease, and giving back to communities through philanthropy and volunteerism.

Tim Coleman

One of Eli Lilly’s many principle commitments is respect for people. "We are proud to again partner with and support BDPA. The organization’s work to ensure a diverse talent pipeline for the future and to encourage young people to explore careers in science and technology aligns with our beliefs at Lilly,” stated Tim Coleman, Eli Lilly and Company Senior Director. “Education is so vital to creating the professionals who will contribute to the discovery of innovative medicines of the future," he added.

Eli Lilly and Company is headquartered in Indianapolis, IN. They have been strong sponsors and examples to others in the city. BDPA Indianapolis Chapter continues to provide opportunities to promote professional development and administer student programs to help high school students gain knowledge, skills and competitive experiences in Information Technology. The chapter has remarkable accomplishments in 2016, including: 2016 Chapter of the Year, 2nd & 3rd Place College IT Showcase Winners (4 participants), 1st & 2nd Place High School Mobile Showcase Winners, 2 Students won iPads and several students were awarded scholarships.

Terry Morris

Terry Morris, BDPA Indianapolis Chapter President stated, “As President of the Indianapolis Chapter of BDPA, I am once again proud to stay thank you and recognize Eli Lilly and Company for its sustained commitment to BDPA and its pledge to having a diverse and inclusive workforce. Eli Lilly has been the most tenured and consistent sponsor of our local chapter’s youth and professional development efforts. Their sponsorship, and more importantly, their willingness to allow their leaders to play a significant role in the leadership and execution of the chapter played a key role in the Indianapolis chapter being named the 2016 Chapter of the Year.”

For more details on the BDPA corporate sponsorship program, contact the corporate sales support team at (301) 584-3135 ext. 108 or corpsales@bdpa.org. Additionally, please visit www.bdpa.org.

Eli Lilly and Company Renews Its Gold Level Sponsorship

The long-term investment into BDPA by Eli Lilly and Company has been ongoing for well over a decade. It continues as Eli Lilly and Company renewed its Gold Level corporate sponsorship of the 37th Annual BDPA Technology Conference in Washington DC on August 18-22, 2015. Eli Lilly and Company agreed to underwrite a variety of activities that include the BDPA IT Showcase, college scholarships, career fair, BDPA Job Board and an investment in the BDPA Indianapolis chapter. Eli Lilly believes in the BDPA mission of advancing the careers of African Americans in the information technology industry ‘from the classroom to the boardroom’.

Eli Lilly and Company seeks to discover and bring life-changing medicines to those who need them, improve the understanding and management of disease, and give back to communities through philanthropy and volunteerism. The company embraces diversity by understanding, respecting and valuing differences. BDPA has seen the commitment by Eli Lilly and Company to diversity in its workplace, marketplace and its relationships with suppliers. The company clearly understands that caring for people across the globe and working to make lives better starts with understanding and including everyone in its effort to discover solutions that make life better.

Tim Coleman

“We are proud to again partner with and support BDPA. The organization’s work to ensure a diverse talent pipeline for the future and to encourage young people to explore careers in science and technology aligns with our beliefs at Lilly,” says Eli Lilly senior director Tim Coleman, “Education is so vital to creating the professionals who will contribute to the discovery of innovative medicines of the future.”

Founded in 1975, BDPA is the premier organization for African American professionals in the information technology industry. BDPA has fulfilled its mission and worked to bridge the digital divide by providing career growth opportunities for its members.

“BDPA is excited to continue our partnership with Eli Lilly in 2015. As we approach the celebration of our 40th year in existence, we look forward to Eli Lilly helping us advance careers from the classroom to the boardroom,” said National BDPA president Pamela Mathews.

For more information about BDPA or its sponsorship program, please contact us by email (corpsales@bdpa.org) or phone (301.584-3135 x108).

BDPA Foundation Announces 2014 Eli Lilly Scholarship Winners

The BDPA Education and Technology Foundation (BETF), in coordination with Eli Lilly and Company, is pleased to announce the winner of the 8th annual Eli Lilly and Company Scholarship for BDPA Students. The two winners this year are Pooja Chebolu, incoming freshman at University of Southern California (Los Angeles, CA) and Dylan  Gunn, junior at North Carolina A&T (Cincinnati, OH).


The purpose of the Eli Lilly Scholarship for BDPA Students is to recognize outstanding minority students, with an interest in information technology, who make significant contributions to society. Applicants must excel academically, show exceptional leadership potential, and make an impact on their communities through service to others.

“We are committed to supporting programs that provide opportunities for young people to explore and enhance their careers in science and technology. Education is so vital in creating the professionals who will contribute to the discovery of innovative medicines of the future,” said Janice Chavers, Director, HR and Diversity Communications, Eli Lilly and Company.

Pooja is a long-term member of our BDPA Los Angeles chapter.  She competed for a number of years as part of the chapter's High School Computer Competition ... winning two Dr. Jesse Bemley Scholarships.  This is her first time winning the Eli Lilly Scholarship for BDPA Students!  Part of the application process is an essay that answers the question 'Why is Information Technology Important'.  Pooja's essay focused on the various facets of the web.  As she says, the "web connects more than machines, it connects people".  Click here for the full text of her winning essay.

"I am beyond thrilled to be named a recipient of the Eli Lilly Scholarship for BDPA Students! BDPA has certainly enabled me to appreciate the sheer depth of IT through its programming courses, but in alleviating the financial burden of paying for college with its scholarship programs, this organization has forged unparalleled opportunities and truly inspired me to use computing to benefit contemporary society. I couldn't be more thankful!"

Dylan is a long-time member of our BDPA Cincinnati chapter. His essay focused on the impact of technology on the lives of his generation, Generation Y.  Click here for the full text of his winning essay.

"These past two years have been full of ups & downs, but a roller coaster wouldn't be fun if it were just a straight line going full speed. It's true what they say, the absence of evidence isn't the evidence of absence. I received a phone call that made me cry because I thought the evidence to receive such a scholarship wasn't there. They chose me for me, not a GPA alone. Talk about breaking chains!"

Previous Eli Lilly scholars were:

1. 2007, Daniel Puente (University of Texas)
2. 2007, Christian West (Northwestern University)
3. 2008, Khalia Braswell (North Carolina State University)
4. 2008, Lee Reed (University of Michigan)
5. 2009, Hung Vo (Georgia Institute of Technology)
6. 2009, Carrine Johnson (Palos Verdes Peninsula High School)
7. 2010, Leslie Vasquez (Pike High School)
8. 2010, Gerardo Dominguez (Chicago State University)
9. 2011, Jala Cruz (North Central High School)
10. 2011, Adwait Walimbe (John Marshall High School)
11. 2012, Allen Warner (Valdosta State University)
12. 2013, Risa Christopher (Indiana University)
13. 2013, Cameron Hughes (University of California, San Diego)

BDPA iRadio Show - September 9, 2014

BDPA Education and Technology Foundation (BETF) is very proud to be the creator of the BDPA iRadio Show. You can listen to the archive version of the show using the widget shown in the right-hand sidebar of this blog. FREE download from the iTunes Store is also available for our listeners!

Check Out Technology Podcasts at Blog Talk Radio with BDPA on BlogTalkRadio

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The guest on the September 9th show:

Joneé Drake - Associate Information Consultant, Eli Lilly and Company - Joneé Drake is an IT business analyst with Eli Lilly and Company. She has a number of IT certifications and she is well-respected within her company and her community.  Joneé also has a unique place in BDPA folklore ... she was a member of the 1992 High School Computer Competition team trained by our BDPA Northwest Indiana chapter! Joneé continues her march on the journey of 'classroom to boardroom' that we admire within the BDPA family. Joneé graduated from Purdue University after leaving Gary, IN. She has worked at Eli Lilly for her entire professional career ... and current BDPA students still benefit from the work that she did to establish the annual Eli Lilly Scholarship for BDPA Students. Our BDPA iRadio Show listeners enjoyed hearing her unique perspective on BDPA as both a student and an IT professional.

Anjuan Simmons - Project Manager, OnCenter Software - Anjuan Simmons is a technologist with a successful track record of delivering technology solutions from the user interface to the database. He is currently a software project manager at a leading construction software manufacturer, and he worked as a technology executive for Infosys, Accenture, and Deloitte, all multi-billion dollar technology services companies with hundreds of clients around the world.

He is also the author of Minority Tech: Journaling Through Blackness and Technology. This book is an essay anthology covering the author’s experiences as an African American man in a society that often misunderstands Blackness, the need for people of color to own their destinies, and the value that diversity can bring to the technology industry. We are pleased to bring the unique musings of Anjuan Simmons to our BDPA iRadio audience.  Anjuan can be found on Twitter - @anjuan

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We hope you enjoy the insights and commentary on the show from each of these guests. Please take a moment to post a comment to let us know that you care!

Eli Lilly Scholarship for BDPA Students (Deadline: June 30, 2014)

BDPA Education and Technology Foundation is proud to open up the application period for any graduating high school student or current college student interested in the 8th Annual Eli Lilly and Company Scholarship for BDPA Students!

The purpose of the Lilly/BDPA Scholarship is to recognize outstanding minority students, with an interest in information technology, who make significant contributions to society. Applicants must excel academically, show exceptional leadership potential, and make an impact on their communities through service to others.

Lilly/BDPA Scholars will be awarded a one-time $5,000 scholarship that may be used to pursue an information technology focused degree at an accredited four-year college or university of their choice. The Lilly/BDPA Scholarship may be used to supplement benefits from the college or university a student plans to attend and fellowships from other foundations or organizations. Students may use the scholarship to cover the cost of tuition, fees, books, room and board, and other college-related expenses.

Scholarship winners will be selected based on the application, essay, and letters of recommendation.

To be eligible for Lilly/BDPA Scholarship, each applicant must:

• Be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident of the United States
• Be a member of BDPA
• Be a graduating high school senior or current college student in good standing at the time of their application.
• Demonstrate academic achievement (minimum GPA of 3.0)
• Exhibit leadership ability through academic or civic involvement and participate in community service activities

Complete application packet must include the following:

1. Application Form
2. Current official sealed transcript
3. 500-word essay on “Why Information Technology is Important”
4. Two signed letters of recommendation
5. Passport-sized photo

Click here to download application!

Scholarships will be awarded only to students who fully meet the scholarship requirements. All application materials must be POSTMARKED by June 30, 2014 in order to be eligible.  Incomplete, e-mailed or faxed applications will not be considered!

We will announce the two winners of the Eli Lilly Scholarship for BDPA Students during the 2014 National BDPA Technology Conference in Indianapolis.   We are very proud of our past Lilly/BDPA scholarship winners:

Cameron Hughes (2013 Scholar)

1. 2007, Daniel Puente (University of Texas)
2. 2007, Christian West (Northwestern University)
3. 2008, Khalia Braswell (North Carolina State University)
4. 2008, Lee Reed (University of Michigan)
5. 2009, Hung Vo (Georgia Institute of Technology)
6. 2009, Carrine Johnson (Palos Verdes Peninsula High School)
7. 2010, Leslie Vasquez (Pike High School)
8. 2010, Gerardo Dominguez (Chicago State University)
9. 2011, Jala Cruz (North Central High School)
10. 2011, Adwait Walimbe (John Marshall High School)
11. 2012, Allen Warner (Valdosta State University)
12. 2013, Risa Christopher (Indiana University)
13. 2013, Cameron Hughes (University of California, San Diego)

Do you know any high school or college kids looking to study in a technology-based field during college? Can they use a $5,000 scholarship? If so, you need to share this information with them right away!

Any questions?

Eli Lilly and Company Seeks to Jump-Start IT Career for 50 College Students

Eli Lilly and Company has been a major BDPA corporate sponsor for over a decade. The company upgraded its annual sponsorship to the Platinum level in 2014, primarily because the 36th annual BDPA Technology Conference is coming to Indianapolis, IN on August 5-9, 2014.

To celebrate this major investment, Eli Lilly wants to reach out to at least 50 college students who live or go to school in the state of Indiana. The company has purchased 50 BDPA memberships which are being given to deserving college students who supply them with six simple data points:

1. Name
2. College
3. Email Address
4. Mailing Address
5. Phone Number
6. Resume *or* URL for your LinkedIn Network profile

Not only will the first 50 college students that respond to his offer receive a complimentary annual membership into BDPA ... these students will also receive an exclusive dinner invitation to attend an IT College Student Dinner, sponsored by Eli Lilly, that takes place on Thursday, August 7, 2014 during the annual technology conference. This dinner will provide the invited college students with a unique networking opportunity with IT executives and managers from Lilly's world headquarters offices. Finally, the students will be inspired as part of the private audience of keynoter Pierre Campbell.



The process is simple enough. Send the six data points shown above by email to either Angel Henry (Eli Lilly) or Wayne Hicks (National BDPA).

Do it now! Don't procrastinate! This is a rare opportunity for a college student to get connected with some of the movers and shakers in the IT industry. Find a way to 'make it so' for your life and career!

Related articles

• BDPA and Eli Lilly Offer $2,500 Scholarship to Minority Students
• Seeking STEM Student Participants for 12th Annual BDPA IT Showcase
• Recruitment Begins For 100 Eli Lilly and Company Jobs

Seeking STEM Student Participants for 12th Annual BDPA IT Showcase

BDPA is actively recruiting high school and college undergraduate students to participate in the 12th annual National BDPA Information Technology (IT) Showcase (co-sponsored by Eli Lilly and Company and Johnson & Johnson).

Download BDPA IT Showcase Overview & Timeline!

2012 IT Showcase Winner

The BDPA IT Showcase allows student presenters from educational institutions all over the United States to showcase their research papers and posters by presenting and demonstrating their research. The presentations will represent science, technology, engineering or mathematics (STEM) topics presented by highly motivated high school and college students to an audience of students and IT professionals. College and high school students have the opportunity to participate in this 3-day event held in conjunction with the National BDPA Technology Conference held in Indianapolis, IN, August 6-9, 2014.

2013 IT Showcase Winner & Friends

The Presentations and Research Projects will be judged in two divisions … high school and college … by a panel of judges. Three awards will be made in each category for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place. Each participant will be recognized with a Certificate of Appreciation at the end of the IT Showcase session. The awards will be presented at the annual Gala on Saturday, August 9, 2014.  See list of past winners!

BDPA seeks scholarly papers/projects on leading edge technologies in STEM disciplines with a focus on, hardware and software methodologies, research proofs of concept encompassing, but not limited to, artificial intelligence, intelligent technologies, smart toys, machine learning, genetic algorithms, wearable computing, web technologies, green IT technologies, virtual IT technologies, high performance computing, computing curricula, computational science (across the physical and life sciences), green energy technologies, robotics, climate change or global warming.

The National IT Showcase Coordinators will work with chapter volunteers and students to help them develop their research project. The final recommendation on the student's participation will be made after the research paper is completed.

Participants are expected to follow this timeline:

1. Research paper (8 page maximum) – due April 15, 2014
2. PowerPoint presentation from the paper (10 min. for IT Showcase) – due June 6, 2014
3. Poster display (3ft by 4ft) graphically depicting research topic - due June 6, 2014
4. Photo (B&W) and Bio – due April 15, 2014
5. Trip Report - Due August 16, 2014.

The presentation and poster are driven by the research paper. The PowerPoint presentation is given at the podium and poster presentations are given in the poster display area.

Contact Dr. Jesse Bemley (IT Showcase coordinator) on (301) 584-3135 if you have questions or wish to discuss further.

Related articles

• VIDEO: Review of 2013 BDPA Technology Conference

BDPA Foundation Announces 2013 Eli Lilly Scholarship Winners

The BDPA Education and Technology Foundation (BETF), in coordination with Eli Lilly and Company, is pleased to announce the winner of the 7th annual Eli Lilly and Company Scholarship for BDPA Students. The two winners this year are Cameron Hughes, incoming freshman at University of California, San Diego (Detroit, MI) and Risa Christopher, incoming freshman at Indiana University (Munster, IN).



The purpose of the Eli Lilly Scholarship for BDPA Students is to recognize outstanding minority students, with an interest in information technology, who make significant contributions to society. Applicants must excel academically, show exceptional leadership potential, and make an impact on their communities through service to others.

“We appreciate Eli Lilly and Company for the investment that it continues to make in our BDPA student members,” said Wayne Hicks, BETF Executive Director. “The BDPA Foundation is pleased to work with Eli Lilly to help cultivate these future leaders. Our hope is that other corporations will contact us for similar scholarship opportunities”

Part of the application process is an essay that answers the question 'Why is Information Technology Important'.  Risa's essay focused on the pervasiveness of education, as well as on they plan she has to combine her personal passion for healthcare and information technology with a degree in Health Informatics.  Click here for the full text of her winning essay.

Cameron Hughes

Cameron is a long-time BDPA member.  He was part of the past few national High School Computer Competition teams trained by our BDPA chapter in Detroit, MI.  Cameron has a genuine passion for computer programming.  His essay focused on the impact of technology on both every day and his life personally. Click here for the full text of his winning essay.

Previous Eli Lilly scholars were:

1. 2007, Daniel Puente (University of Texas)
2. 2007, Christian West (Northwestern University)
3. 2008, Khalia Braswell (North Carolina State University)
4. 2008, Lee Reed (University of Michigan)
5. 2009, Hung Vo (Georgia Institute of Technology)
6. 2009, Carrine Johnson (Palos Verdes Peninsula High School)
7. 2010, Leslie Vasquez (Pike High School)
8. 2010, Gerardo Dominguez (Chicago State University)
9. 2011, Jala Cruz (North Central High School)
10. 2011, Adwait Walimbe (John Marshall High School)
11. 2012, Allen Warner (Valdosta State University)

Overview: BDPA College Scholarships

The BDPA strategy is to bring college students into the professional chapters on the local level as opposed to creating ‘college chapters’. Part of that strategy includes an aggressive delivery of college scholarships to deserving BDPA high school students.

There are a number of college scholarship programs in place:

1. Bank of America Scholarship for BDPA Students - These scholarships are administered by BETF.  There have been six Bank of America scholars over the years.
2. Dr. Jesse Bemley Scholarship – These scholarships are administered by BETF. They are awarded to high-performing students in the annual BDPA High School Computer Competition (HSCC) championships. Bemley scholars can be found in scores of colleges around the nation.
3. Eli Lilly Scholarships for BDPA Students – These scholarships are administered by BETF. They are awarded to students around the nation who show a desire to make a difference in the IT industry over the course of their college and professional careers. Eli Lilly & Company began funding these scholarships in 2008.
4. Johnson & Johnson Scholarships for BDPA Students - These scholarships are administered by BDPA. They are provided to winners of the annual BDPA IT Showcase as well as all-around excellent HSCC students.
5. Monsanto Scholarships for BDPA Students - This scholarship initiated in 2013 and given to four students (2 nationally and 2 from St. Louis) with an interest in information technology, who make significant contributions to society. Applicants must excel academically, show exceptional leadership potential, and make an impact on their communities through service to others.
6. Oracle Scholarships for BDPA Students – These scholarships are administered by BDPA. They are awarded to deserving students selected by local chapters. Over $150,000 has been awarded to Oracle scholars over the past three years.

We are grateful to Creating IT Futures Foundation for its support of the Bemley Scholarships. The funding for that college scholarship comes primarily from BDPA members and supporters. You can make a secure online donation in a number of ways that include:

• Crowdrise
• Facebook Causes
• Your Debit or Credit Card

Finally, we would love to talk with other corporations or nonprofit organizations about creating STEM-related college scholarships that can be administered by the BDPA Education and Technology Foundation. Just reach out to us via email, scholarships@betf.org.

BDPA and Eli Lilly Offer $2,500 College Scholarships for Minority STEM Students

BDPA Education and Technology Foundation is proud to open up the application period for any graduating high school student or current college student interested in the 7th Annual Eli Lilly and Company Scholarship for BDPA Students!

The purpose of the Lilly/BDPA Scholarship is to recognize outstanding minority students, with an interest in information technology, who make significant contributions to society. Applicants must excel academically, show exceptional leadership potential, and make an impact on their communities through service to others.

Lilly/BDPA Scholars will be awarded a one-time $2,500 scholarship that may be used to pursue an information technology focused degree at an accredited four-year college or university of their choice. The Lilly/BDPA Scholarship may be used to supplement benefits from the college or university a student plans to attend and fellowships from other foundations or organizations. Students may use the scholarship to cover the cost of tuition, fees, books, room and board, and other college-related expenses.

Scholarship winners will be selected based on the application, essay, and letters of recommendation.

To be eligible for Lilly/BDPA Scholarship, each applicant must:

• Be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident of the United States
• Be a member of BDPA
• Be a graduating high school senior or current college student in good standing at the time of their application.
• Demonstrate academic achievement (minimum GPA of 3.0)
• Exhibit leadership ability through academic or civic involvement and participate in community service activities

Complete application packet must include the following:

1. Application Form
2. Current transcript
3. 500-word essay on “Why Information Technology is Important”
4. Two letters of recommendation

Click here to download application!

Scholarships will be awarded only to students who fully meet the scholarship requirements. All application materials must be RECEIVED on or before July 1, 2013 in order to be eligible. Incomplete, e-mailed or faxed applications will not be considered!

We will announce the Lilly/BDPA scholarship winners during the 2013 National BDPA Technology Conference in Philadelphia, PA.   We are very proud of our past Lilly/BDPA scholarship winners:

1. 2007, Daniel Puente (University of Texas)
2. 2007, Christian West (Northwestern University)
3. 2008, Khalia Braswell (North Carolina State University)
4. 2008, Lee Reed (University of Michigan)
5. 2009, Hung Vo (Georgia Institute of Technology)
6. 2009, Carrine Johnson (Palos Verdes Peninsula High School)
7. 2010, Leslie Vasquez (Pike High School)
8. 2010, Gerardo Dominguez (Chicago State University)
9. 2011, Jala Cruz (North Central High School)
10. 2011, Adwait Walimbe (John Marshall High School)
11. 2012, Allen Warner (Valdosta State University)

Do you know any high school or college kids looking to study in a technology-based field during college? Can they use a $2,500 scholarship? If so, you need to share this information with them right away!

Any questions?

Eli Lilly and Company Becomes BDPA Gold Level Corporate Sponsor

The world’s 10th largest pharmaceutical company is not only committed to creating life-saving medicines, but Eli Lilly and Company is also dedicated to 21st century IT industry leaders like BDPA. Lilly recently confirmed its $50,000 Gold Level Corporate sponsorship for the 2013 National BDPA Conference & Career Fair. This sponsorship also included a renewal of the Eli Lilly Scholarships for BDPA Students through 2015.

“Lilly has been a BDPA partner since 2004 and its generous gift will enable our organization to enhance the tone, culture, and spirit of the Indianapolis chapter, while providing local children with computer and personal skills instruction that will help them achieve their dreams of careers in STEM related fields,” said Monique Berry, BDPA’s National President.

For over 135 years, Lilly has led in research innovation, medicines, philanthropic responsibility and community involvement. Forbes magazine ranked the company as one of the top philanthropic donors in America.

BDPA stands as a global member-focused technology organization with over 45 active chapters in the United States that are committed to delivering 21st century technological programs, education, mentoring, support, and services for world class IT professionals. Lilly’s $50,000 gold level corporate sponsorship further advances BDPA’s STEM goals and services for the community.

“We are committed to supporting programs that provide opportunities for young people to explore and enhance their careers in science and technology. Education is so vital in creating the professionals who will contribute to the discovery of innovative medicines of the future,” said Janice Chavers, Director, HR and Diversity Communications, Lilly.

Eli Lilly and Company Scholarship for BDPA Students (Deadline: July 1, 2012)

BDPA Education and Technology Foundation (BETF) is pleased to announce opening of the application period for the 2012 Eli Lilly and Company Scholarship for BDPA Students. The purpose of the Lilly/BDPA Scholarship is to recognize outstanding students of color, with an interest in Information Technology, who make significant contributions to society. Applicants must excel academically, show exceptional leadership potential, and make an impact on their communities through service to others.

This year we will offer one $2,500 college scholarship at the national level and one $2,500 college scholarship in the Eli Lilly corporate headquarters city of Indianapolis. The eligibility requirements and application for this college scholarship opportunity can be found in the document shown below.

Eli Lilly Scholarship for BDPA Students

View more documents from Wayne Hicks

The deadline for application is July 1, 2012.

BDPA Foundation Announces 2011 Eli Lilly Scholarship Winners

The BDPA Education and Technology Foundation (BETF), in coordination with Eli Lilly and Company, is pleased to announce the winner of the fifth annual Eli Lilly and Company Scholarship for BDPA Students. The two winners this year are Jala Cruz, a graduating senior at North Central High School (Indianapolis, IN) and Adwait Walimbe, a rising senior at John Marshall High School (Rochester, MN).



The purpose of the Eli Lilly Scholarship for BDPA Students is to recognize outstanding minority students, with an interest in information technology, who make significant contributions to society. Applicants must excel academically, show exceptional leadership potential, and make an impact on their communities through service to others.

“We appreciate Eli Lilly and Company for the investment that it continues to make in our BDPA student members,” said Wayne Hicks, BETF Executive Director. “The BDPA Foundation is pleased to work with Eli Lilly to help cultivate these future leaders. Our hope is that other corporations will contact us for similar scholarship opportunities”

Part of the application process is an essay that answers the question 'Why is Information Technology Important'.  Jala's essay focused on the many ways that technology is used to improve our lives.  Click here for the full text of her winning essay.

Adwait is a long-time BDPA member.  He was part of the past few national High School Computer Competition championship teams trained by our BDPA chapter in Rochester, MN.  His essay focused on the impact of technology on both entrepreneurial start-ups and off-shore outsourcing. Click here for the full text of his winning essay.

Previous Eli Lilly scholars were:

• 2010 - Leslie Vasquez (Pike High School) and Gerado Dominguez (Chicago State University)
• 2009 - Carrine Johnson (Palos Verdes Peninsula High School) and Hung Vo (Georgia Tech University)
• 2008 - Khalia Braswell (North Carolina State University) and Christian West (Northwestern University)
• 2007 - Daniel Puente (Yvonne A. Ewell Townview Magnet Center School of Business and Management) and Lee Reed (University of Michigan)

Eli Lilly Scholarship for BDPA Students, Deadline: July 1, 2011

The BDPA Education and Technology Foundation is proud to open up the application period for any graduating high school student or current college student interested in the 2011 Eli Lilly and Company Scholarship for BDPA Students!

The purpose of the Lilly/BDPA Scholarship is to recognize outstanding minority students, with an interest in information technology, who make significant contributions to society. Applicants must excel academically, show exceptional leadership potential, and make an impact on their communities through service to others.

Lilly/BDPA Scholars will be awarded a one-time $2,500 scholarship that may be used to pursue an information technology focused degree at an accredited four-year college or university of their choice. The Lilly/BDPA Scholarship may be used to supplement benefits from the college or university a student plans to attend and fellowships from other foundations or organizations. Students may use the scholarship to cover the cost of tuition, fees, books, room and board, and other college-related expenses.

Scholarship winners will be selected based on the application, essay, and letters of recommendation.

To be eligible for Lilly/BDPA Scholarship, each applicant must:

• Be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident of the United States
• Be a graduating high school senior or current college student in good standing at the time of their application.
• Be a member of BDPA
• Demonstrate academic achievement (minimum GPA of 3.0)
• Exhibit leadership ability through academic or civic involvement and participate in community service activities

Complete application packet must include the following:

1. Application Form
2. Current transcript
3. 500-word essay on “Why Information Technology is Important”
4. Two letters of recommendation

Click here to download application!

Scholarships will be awarded only to students who fully meet the scholarship requirements. All application materials must be RECEIVED on or before July 1, 2011 in order to be eligible. Incomplete, e-mailed or faxed applications will not be considered!

We will announce the Lilly/BDPA scholarship winners during the 2011 National BDPA Technology Conference in Chicago, IL.   We are very proud of our past Lilly/BDPA scholarship winners:

1. 2007, Daniel Puente (University of Texas)
2. 2007, Christian West (Northwestern University)
3. 2008, Khalia Braswell (North Carolina State University)
4. 2008, Lee Reed (University of Michigan)
5. 2009, Hung Vo (Georgia Institute of Technology)
6. 2009, Carrine Johnson (Palos Verdes Peninsula High School)
7. 2010, Jerry Dominguez (Chicago State University)
8. 2010, Leslie Fuqua (Pike High School)

Do you know any high school or college kids looking to study in a technology-based field during college? Can they use a $2,500 scholarship? If so, you need to share this information with them right away!

Any questions?